Meeting people of a certain country is one of the highlights that make for an interesting trip. Sure, a country’s famous attractions are one of the most important things all travelers must think of, but surely there is nothing more fun and educational than meeting and spending time with the locals.

Nepal has one of the most diverse cultures and environmental climate and conditions you will ever encounter. Today’s inhabitants originated from the early settlers from Tibet and Northern India, with Hinduism and Buddhism as the main religions. The weather here is also very diverse— from hills and plains to the freezing Himalayan mountains, this place has the best of both worlds. Agriculture is perhaps one of the most valued sources of living in the country. About 80 percent of people in this country consider farming as their main source of income. Some of the most important crops here are wheat, maize, potatoes, sugarcane, and wheat. Raising of livestock such as sheep, goats, poultry, and yaks is also a very source of living.

Travelers with their cameras or their huge backpacks are not an uncommon sight in Nepal. The streets are filled with locals and visitors alike, and though many places could be too loud at times, there is a sense of peace and friendliness in the air; a kind of calm that will not let you worry about being robbed, groped, or harassed.

The Nepalis are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. Unlike most countries that could easily intimidate visitors, this place is beaming with warmth and kindness. Try going inside any shop and you will find yourself talking with the shopkeeper for hours. Try sitting with some of the locals outside their homes, and you’ll most likely be offered chai in the first few minutes of conversation.

There are more than 24 million people in Nepal, with different cultural groups that make up a culture like no other. The following are some of the alpine cultural groups in Nepal: the Sherpas, who are famous for their exceptional skills in mountaineering and trekking (they are the ones who guide hikers climbing the Himalayan mountains; the Manang Bas, who are known for their businesses and their own language as well as their own religious practice; and the Lo Pas of Mustang , the carriers of trade between Nepal and Tibet. Some of the groups from the temperate zone are the Newars, who are believed to have descended from Tibeto-Burmans that practice farming and trade; and the Gurungs (who live at some parts of Annapurna and Kali Gandaki) who are known for their efforts in serving in the military.

If ever you decide to visit Nepal, you can be assured of one thing: most of these people are so nice and friendly, you’ll easily make friends with them. The Nepali people are so used to visitors roaming the streets of their country, so talking to them will not be difficult. The moment you get out of that airport, you sure will be in for a great surprise.